Gandhi statue vandalised in Haveri: accused arrested, probe underway
Haveri : Police in Haveri have arrested a 28-year-old man for allegedly vandalising a statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Circle, an incident that had sparked outrage among local residents.
The accused has been identified as Vaibhav Raykar. According to police, he was traced and apprehended after a special team formed under the supervision of Superintendent of Police Yashoda Vantagodi analysed CCTV footage from the area. Initial findings suggest that the accused may be mentally unstable, officials said, adding that further investigation is ongoing.
The incident came to light early Monday morning when locals discovered the two-foot-tall Gandhi statue in a damaged condition. The right arm of the statue had been broken, triggering anger and concern among residents, who condemned the act and demanded swift action.
Following the complaint, Karnataka Police registered a case at the Haveri Town Police Station and launched an investigation. The accused has since been produced before a court and remanded to judicial custody.
Authorities noted that this is not the first such incident in the city. In the past, miscreants had also defaced another Gandhi statue near the Municipal High School. Residents pointed out that the statue holds historical significance, as Mahatma Gandhi had visited Haveri, leading to its installation in the city.
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Vijayamahantesh stated that the matter has been taken seriously and brought to the attention of the district in-charge minister. He said police have been directed to take strict action against those responsible and ensure such incidents do not recur. He also confirmed that steps have been initiated to reconstruct the damaged statue through the municipal authorities at the earliest.
Haveri City Municipal Commissioner Kantaraj said that the act of vandalism took place after midnight. A formal complaint had been lodged seeking legal action, following which an FIR was registered.
Social activist Vibhuti Shetty also condemned the incident, noting that Gandhi Circle has historically been a focal point for protests and public gatherings in the city. He urged authorities to ensure accountability and preserve public symbols of national importance.
The incident has once again raised concerns about the protection of public monuments and the need for increased surveillance in sensitive locations.
